The Erie County Health Department and Community Health Center announced the addition of Melissa Klidas to their clinical team. As a dual-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner with five years of experience in addiction medicine, Klidas brings specialized expertise in bridging physical and mental health care.
Integrated Recovery Model
Klidas operates under a recovery model of care that moves beyond treating symptoms to focusing on “whole-person” wellness. This approach addresses the biological, psychological, social, and spiritual needs of every individual she treats.
She plays a vital role across every stage of the recovery journey within the Erie County health system. At the Erie County Detoxification Unit, she oversees medical management, conducts daily rounds, and collaborates closely with case managers to ensure safe discharge planning. At Kaptur Treatment & Recovery, the department’s residential recovery home, she provides clinical focus to help residents transition toward long-term stability. Through the Community Health Center’s outpatient services, she manages mental health patients, ensuring continuity of care after they leave intensive programs.
“What I enjoy most about our facilities is that I get to see our clients from the highest level of care at our Detox through Residential Treatment and on through Outpatient,” Klidas said. “It’s fulfilling to see people getting better through our continuum of care.”
Advancing Behavioral Health Services
The integration of a dual-certified practitioner marks a significant step forward for the department’s behavioral health initiatives. Stephanie Salyer, chief behavioral health officer at Erie County Health Department, stated: “We are thrilled to have Melissa on our team. Her dual certification and extensive background in addiction medicine allow us to provide a more seamless and integrated experience for our patients.”
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://www.morningjournal.com/2026/01/09/erie-county-health-department-adds-nurse-practitioner/